5 Questions with Jeff Waggoner, A.C.E., Vice President/General Manager, FSS

1. How can IoT devices and AI play a role in enhancing pest monitoring and control within food production and distribution networks?

Deploying IoT devices collect unadulterated data that can be shared across many platforms. This data can be fed to AI systems designed to look for conditions and activity that may lead to a pest-related event. Too often, this valuable data is underutilized. Using AI algorithms to analyze data in real-time will help prevent outbreaks and notify stakeholders when pest activity is detected. This allows for much quicker intervention than current methods and intervals.

2. How can future food safety regulations address the challenges of pest management in the context of global supply chains?

We must advocate for a more harmonized system of regulations across different regions to ensure consistent pest management practices and standards. Enhance training for workers in the industry on those protocols and ensure compliance with regulations. Ensure audits are performed with a focus on safe pest management standards throughout the entire supply chain.

3. What innovative methods are being developed to detect and manage pests during food storage and transportation?

Optical devices utilizing AI algorithms for pest identification minimize the risk of misidentification. This technology provides real-time support to professional technicians in the field, allowing them to assess product contamination risk levels and identify potential root causes efficiently. Precision treatments, such as system fumigations and aerial drone spot applications, effectively target pest activity at their source with a high degree of accuracy.

4. How can advancements in genomic techniques and pathogen surveillance be utilized to improve pest management strategies within food processing facilities?

Utilizing advanced computing capabilities, we can map whole-genome sequencing of pests. This promotes precise identification and tracking of pest species and their movements within specific regions and perhaps specific food processing facilities. We will work to develop predictive models based on that data to thwart pest outbreaks and implement preemptive measures. Establish integrated surveillance systems that combine genomic data with dynamic pest monitoring techniques, producing a more comprehensive pest management program.

5. What post-harvest strategies are being implemented to prevent pest infestations during food production, storage and distribution?

There are many; however, sustainable methods should include design considerations using the latest methods of construction and materials, creating an impenetrable structure. Routine assessments are designed to reveal weak points in the food safety system. Deploy technology to reduce inefficient and analog pest management practices like trap checking and paper reports.